3 Sneaky Ways Your Favorite Apps Are Costing You Stupid Money

Protect your wallet

Sure, your smartphone is a gateway to major convenience (Glamsquad, anyone?), but random fees charged by your most beloved apps can really start to add up. Here, three that you need to keep an eye out for.

SPLITTING A FARE ON LYFT OR UBER

The next time you and your pals request a car, be wary of the “split fare” option--which enables you to divvy up the total tab on different cards, but costs everyone a “convenience fee” of 25 cents for each credit card involved. This might not seem like a lot, but it adds up, especially if there are six of you.

LINKING A CREDIT CARD ON VENMO

We get it: You’re trying to rack up points. (Free slow-cooker here you come!) But Venmo actually charges a 3 percent processing fee every time you pay with your credit card. Instead, link up your debit card to pay nada.

SETTING UP SPOTIFY THROUGH iTUNES

The App Store is your life, so it only makes sense that you would activate your Premium Spotify Premium subscription there, too. But here’s the thing: Signing up for a paid subscription via iTunes on your mobile device will cost you 30 percent more ($12.99 vs. $9.99 a month) than if you register directly on Spotify.com. Already signed up via the App Store? Spotify has a step-by-step process for making the switch and saving yourself cash.